Dad Sports

Dad Sports formed around Cal State Long Beach in the early 2010s, with Oliver Payne and Sean Kelly at the core. Their debut EP 'Beach Rats' came out in 2014, followed by a self-titled EP in 2016 that included 'Dog Cuddles.' That song's simple, catchy melody about pet affection connected with listeners and helped build their audience.

Their music has a straightforward, sometimes sardonic quality, with songs like 'So Be It In My Dreams' and 'gf haircut' reflecting that approach. They toured regularly for a few years, playing shows that emphasized raw energy over polish.

Some critics found their work too simple, and there were questions about Payne's past behavior that surfaced around 2017. The band kept making music, with tracks like 'Name & Place' and 'Out 4 a Breather' continuing in their direct, melodic style.